Sylvia Sivanesan

Relationships Consultant and Counsellor
Master of Social Sciences (Counselling), Bachelor of Psychology

I believe everyone has the capacity to build a meaningful life, and my goal is to support clients in nurturing their strengths, overcoming obstacles, and developing healing relationships. I work with individuals navigating complex interpersonal dynamics at home and in the workplace. I also work therapeutically with couples.

As a trauma-informed therapist, I ensure that all clients feel safe, respected, and valued, celebrating diversity and recognising equal worth and dignity of each person. I have extensive experience working with adults and youth from varied backgrounds and address the impacts of adverse childhood experiences. My journey has deepened my dedication to fostering a Trauma-Informed Community, and I approach each client’s story with humility and compassion.

My approach to relationship therapy is shaped by Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy and Attachment Theory, with a strong commitment to Trauma-Informed values and principles. I am also trained in EMDR.

Since 2006, I’ve worked across private practice, government, and community-based services in Australia and Singapore. With the invaluable experience I’ve gained as a practitioner, I have also embraced leadership roles within not-for-profit community-based therapeutic services over the past decade. My roles have included clinical supervision, training, and management within not-for-profit therapeutic services, reinforcing my advocacy for a trauma-informed approach in both direct work with clients as well as within teams in organisations.

Together, we can create a supportive environment for empowered healing and growth.

Areas of Special Interest:

Therapy for adults

Couple’s counselling (including navigating divorce and separation)

Cross-cultural and interfaith relationships

Healing relationships between parents and youth/adult children

Integrating personal spiritual beliefs in therapy



Clinical supervision for community-based practitioners

Developing the professional self

Trauma-responsive leadership

Community-based services development

Planning and development of community-based therapeutic practice

Implementation of trauma-informed practice for teams and organisations